The podcast discusses the shortage of plumbers in the US due to retiring baby boomers. They explore the impact on the economy and infrastructure, highlighting the challenges in recruiting young workers. The importance of plumbing in the green energy transition is emphasized, along with the appeal of a career in the field for job security and satisfaction.
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Quick takeaways
The shortage of young plumbers in the US could lead to a $33 billion economic cost by 2022.
Efforts to attract more individuals to plumbing careers include promoting positive aspects and debunking misconceptions.
Deep dives
Challenges and Shortage in Plumbing Industry
The podcast reveals a significant challenge in the plumbing industry: a shortage of young people entering the field. Despite the crucial role plumbers play in society, there is a declining interest among the youth to pursue plumbing as a career. This shortage is expected to worsen as more baby boomers retire, leading to potential economic impacts and delays in completing construction projects. The industry is facing barriers in attracting young apprentices due to negative perceptions about the nature of plumbing work.
Economic Impact and Importance of Plumbers
The podcast highlights the economic impact of the shortage of trained plumbers, estimating a cost of $33 billion to the economy by 2022 due to the projected shortfall of 550,000 plumbers by 2027. Plumbers play a vital role in ensuring clean drinking water, especially during emergencies, emphasizing their significance in infrastructure and construction projects. The shortage of skilled plumbers reflects broader labor shortages in sectors like construction and emphasizes the need for more young people to enter skilled trades.
Efforts to Address the Shortage and Promote Plumbing Profession
Efforts are being made to address the shortage of plumbers, such as promoting the positive aspects of the profession and debunking misconceptions. Role models like Super Mario and inspirational posters are being used to attract young people to the trade. Additionally, experienced plumbers like Chris Beondie are working to educate and motivate potential apprentices, highlighting the stability, financial rewards, and job satisfaction that a career in plumbing can offer. These initiatives aim to encourage more individuals to consider plumbing as a viable and rewarding career path.
The US has a plumber shortage. And as more and more baby boomer plumbers reach retirement, there aren’t enough young people coming in to fill the gap.
On today’s Big Take podcast, we talk to Bloomberg’s US Economy reporter Enda Curran about why there’s a shortage and what it means for America’s infrastructure and economy. Plus – we hear from Chris Biondi, a plumber struggling to clear the way for future generations in the industry.